Union County, Arkansas – Authorities are warning residents about scam callers posing as federal agents and demanding prepaid card payments for fake fines.
According to the Union County Sheriff’s Department, multiple reports have been received of individuals calling residents and claiming to be federal agents allegedly working through the local sheriff’s office. Callers tell potential victims they owe fines and must pay immediately using prepaid cards.
The sheriff’s department emphasized that this is not how legitimate law enforcement operates. Officials stated that even if federal agents were working with the department, which they noted is uncommon, no business would ever be handled through phone calls demanding prepaid card payments.
Investigators say the callers often attempt to pressure victims by creating a sense of urgency, using official-sounding titles or threats of legal consequences if payment is not made quickly. Authorities believe many of these scams originate outside the local area, and in some cases outside the United States, making identification and recovery of lost money difficult.
The department is urging residents to remain cautious and skeptical of any unsolicited calls requesting money, regardless of who the caller claims to represent. Officials also encouraged residents to warn family members, especially those who may be more vulnerable to phone scams, such as elderly relatives or individuals unfamiliar with common scam tactics.
Anyone who receives a similar call is advised not to send money, not to provide personal or financial information, and to hang up immediately. Suspicious calls can be reported to local law enforcement for documentation and awareness.
The warning is particularly relevant for working adults and students who may receive unexpected calls during the day and feel pressured to respond quickly without verifying the information.
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